Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD. If you're in the market for a reliable, spacious, and tech-savvy SUV, this could be your perfect match. We're going to break down everything you need to know, from its performance and interior features to its safety ratings and overall value. Buckle up, because we've got a lot to cover!

Performance and Handling

The 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD is designed to offer a smooth and confident driving experience. The 2.4-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine replaces the old V6, providing a good balance of power and efficiency. Generating 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, this engine ensures that you have enough pep for daily commutes and long road trips. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, making the ride even more comfortable. The All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system enhances traction, giving you peace of mind in various weather conditions, whether it's rain, snow, or gravel. The Highlander's suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road to provide a pleasant ride for both the driver and passengers. Steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and navigate city streets. For those who need to tow, the Highlander XLE AWD has a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, making it suitable for hauling small trailers, boats, or campers. Fuel economy is also a strong point, with EPA estimates of 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, making it a practical choice for families who want to save money at the pump. The Highlander's performance is further enhanced by features like drive mode select, which allows you to customize the driving experience based on your preferences and road conditions. Overall, the 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD delivers a well-rounded performance that combines power, comfort, and efficiency.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD, you'll immediately notice the spacious and well-appointed cabin. The XLE trim offers a fantastic blend of comfort and technology, making it a great choice for families and individuals alike. The seats are upholstered in SofTex synthetic leather, which is both comfortable and durable, providing a premium feel without the high maintenance of genuine leather. The driver's seat is power-adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect driving position, while the front passenger seat also offers multiple adjustments for enhanced comfort. One of the standout features of the Highlander XLE AWD is the tri-zone automatic climate control, which ensures that everyone in the vehicle can enjoy their preferred temperature. This is especially useful for families with children or passengers who have different comfort preferences. The second-row seats are easy to access and offer plenty of legroom, making them comfortable for adults and children alike. The third-row seats are best suited for children or smaller adults, but they provide valuable extra seating when needed. In terms of technology, the Highlander XLE AWD comes equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen display that is easy to use and provides access to a wide range of features. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are standard, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the vehicle's infotainment system. Other tech features include Bluetooth connectivity, a six-speaker audio system, and multiple USB ports for charging your devices. The Highlander XLE AWD also comes with Toyota Safety Connect, which provides access to emergency assistance and roadside assistance services. Overall, the interior of the 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD is designed to provide a comfortable and convenient driving experience, with a focus on technology and user-friendliness.

Safety Features

When it comes to safety, the 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD doesn't hold back. It's packed with advanced safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. The Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ suite is standard, which includes a range of driver-assistance technologies such as Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. These features work together to help prevent accidents and keep you safe on the road. The Pre-Collision System uses a combination of radar and cameras to detect potential collisions with vehicles or pedestrians. If a collision is imminent, the system will automatically apply the brakes to help reduce the severity of the impact. Lane Departure Alert monitors the vehicle's position within its lane and provides a warning if it starts to drift out of the lane. If the driver doesn't take corrective action, the system will gently steer the vehicle back into the lane. Dynamic Radar Cruise Control maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting the speed to maintain a safe following distance. Other safety features include Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, which helps you avoid collisions when changing lanes or backing out of parking spaces. The Highlander XLE AWD also comes with a backup camera, which provides a clear view of the area behind the vehicle when you're backing up. In addition to these advanced safety features, the Highlander XLE AWD also includes standard safety equipment such as anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a full suite of airbags. The Highlander has received excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), making it a safe and reliable choice for families. Overall, the 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD is equipped with a comprehensive set of safety features that provide peace of mind and help protect you and your passengers on the road.

Trim Levels and Options

The 2023 Toyota Highlander comes in several trim levels, each offering a unique set of features and options to suit different needs and preferences. The XLE AWD trim sits in the middle of the lineup, offering a great balance of features and value. Above the XLE is the Limited trim, which adds premium features such as leather upholstery, a JBL audio system, and a larger touchscreen display. The Platinum trim is the top-of-the-line model, offering even more luxury and technology, including a panoramic sunroof, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system. For those looking for a more sporty appearance, the Highlander XSE trim offers unique styling elements and a sport-tuned suspension. The L and LE trims are the base models, offering a more affordable entry point into the Highlander lineup. In terms of options, the Highlander XLE AWD offers several packages that allow you to customize the vehicle to your specific needs. The Premium Audio package adds a JBL audio system and a larger touchscreen display. The Driver Convenience package includes features such as a hands-free power liftgate and a wireless charging pad. The Rear Seat Entertainment system adds a Blu-ray player and dual 10.1-inch displays for rear-seat passengers. Standalone options include second-row captain's chairs, a panoramic sunroof, and a tow hitch receiver. With so many trim levels and options to choose from, it's easy to find a 2023 Toyota Highlander that meets your specific needs and budget. The XLE AWD trim offers a great balance of features and value, making it a popular choice among buyers. Overall, the 2023 Toyota Highlander lineup provides a wide range of choices to suit different lifestyles and preferences.

Overall Value and Conclusion

So, what's the final verdict on the 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD? Overall, this SUV offers exceptional value for its price point. It combines a comfortable and spacious interior with a suite of advanced safety features and a fuel-efficient engine. Whether you're commuting to work, hauling the kids to school, or embarking on a road trip, the Highlander XLE AWD is a versatile and reliable choice. The standard all-wheel-drive provides added confidence in various weather conditions, while the ample cargo space ensures you have room for all your gear. The intuitive infotainment system and smartphone integration make it easy to stay connected on the go, and the comfortable seats ensure a pleasant ride for both the driver and passengers. While some may find the third-row seating a bit cramped for adults, it's a useful feature for families with children. The Highlander's strong resale value is another factor to consider, as it tends to hold its value well over time. Of course, there are other SUVs in the market to consider, such as the Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride, and Ford Explorer. However, the Highlander stands out with its reputation for reliability, safety, and overall quality. The 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD is a well-rounded SUV that offers a great combination of features, performance, and value. If you're in the market for a midsize SUV, it's definitely worth a look. Thanks for joining me on this deep dive into the 2023 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD. I hope this information has been helpful in your car-buying journey!